Ancient and significant copper mine, once counted among the wealthiest in Cornwall, has a storied history. Initially referred to as Wh Sound, a mine situated at the set’s western end, it yielded 9 tons of copper ore during 1756-1757. By 1765, the group became known as Wh Towan. However, the rise of the prominent Parys Mountain mines in Anglesey led to a period of dormancy for Wh Towan between 1788 and 1799.
Resuming operations in 1800, Wh Towan experienced a resurgence, producing a substantial 37,859 tons of copper ore until June 1814. This ore fetched an impressive sum of £470,619, underscoring the mine’s significance and economic contribution during this period of activity.